Patriots owner Robert Kraft has entered a not guilty plea to two misdemeanor counts of soliciting prostitution and has requested a jury trial, according to court documents filed Tuesday. The latter part is an interesting one, as Kraft’s legal team had originally requested a non-jury trial, according to late-February court documents.
The 77-year-old Kraft also waived his right to an arraignment in Florida, according to the documents.
It’s the latest development in what’s become an embarrassing saga for the billionaire owner of the league’s most successful team, and comes after a statement released by Kraft on Saturday afternoon.
“I am truly sorry. I know I have disappointed my family, my close friends, my co-workers, our fans and many others who rightfully hold us to a higher standard,” Kraft’s statement read in part. “Throughout my life, I have always tried to do the right thing. The last thing I would ever want to do is disrespect another human being. I have extraordinary respect for women; my morals and soul were shaped by the most wonderful woman, the love of my life, who I was blessed to have as a partner for 50 years.”
Maintaining his innocence throughout the ordeal, and with his team doing their part to avoid any videos becoming public, Kraft has already rejected a reported plea deal that would have seen him admit guilt in the incident.